Effects of chloroquine treatment on antioxidant enzymes in rat liver and kidney

In-vitro and in-vivo assessment of the bactericidal potential of peracetic acid and hydrogen peroxide disinfectants against A. hydrophila infection in Nile tilapia and their effect on water quality indices and fish stress biomarkers

This study aimed to assess the in vitro and in vivo disinfectant potential of peracetic acid (PAA) (1 mg/L) and hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) (20 mg/L) on the physicochemical and microbiological water quality parameters of fish aquaria, the microbial density of Nile tilapia muscular tissue, fish hepatic cortisol levels, and antioxidant biomarkers. In vitro, PAA and H2O2 reduced A. hydrophila colony viability by 5 log units after 30 and 5 min of contact time, respectively. PAA and H2O2 were added to aquaria water twice a week for the three-week experiment. Increased fish escape reflexes were observed only in the PAA group, which returned to normal within 10 min. No mortalities were reported in either the PAA or H2O2 groups. An in vivo experimental challenge with a pathogenic strain of A. hydrophila revealed a 20% reduction in mortality in the PAA group, with no mortalities in the H2O2 group. Cortisol levels and antioxidant markers were measured to assess the impact of PAA and H2O2 on fish health. Cortisol levels in the PAA and H2O2 groups were significantly higher than in the control group after disinfectant exposure, but they progressively returned to normal. A significant reduction in superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT) activity, along with considerably higher glutathione peroxidase (GPx) and malondialdehyde (MDA) enzymatic activity, was observed in the PAA and H2O2 groups compared to the control group. A substantial increase in total antioxidant capacity (TAC) was recorded in the PAA group. Physicochemical analyses revealed reduced pH and increased dissolved oxygen levels in the PAA and H2O2 groups. Microbiological analyses showed a significant reduction in bacterial density in water by 64% and 76% after 30 min of exposure to PAA and H2O2, respectively, with a non-significant increase in microbial count after bacterial challenge. Additionally, aerobic bacterial count, Aeromonas spp., and psychotropic bacterial count in fish muscle showed a significant reduction in the H2O2 group compared to the PAA and control groups before and after infection. The study concludes that regular application of PAA and H2O2 can temporarily reduce bacterial load in aquaria and fish muscle, regulate stress responses, and improve fish health by reducing A. hydrophila-induced infections and improving survival.

Inhibition of thioredoxin reductase and upregulation of apoptosis genes for effective anti-tumor sono-chemotherapy using a meso-organosilica nanomedicine

The thioredoxin system is involved in cancer development and therefore is a promising target for cancer chemotherapy. Thioredoxin reductase (TrxR) is a key component of the thioredoxin (Trx) system, and is overexpressed in many cancers to inhibit apoptosis-related proteins. Alternatively, inhibition of thioredoxin reductase and upregulation of apoptosis factors provide a therapeutic strategy for anti-tumor treatment. In this study, an ultrasound-activatable meso-organosilica nanomedicine was prepared by integrating chloroquine (CQ) into hollow mesoporous organosilica (CQ@MOS). The meso-organosilica nanomedicine can inhibit the activity of thioredoxin reductase, elevate cellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels, upregulate the pro-apoptotic factors in the c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK) apoptosis pathway and induce autophagy inhibition, further resulting in mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP) depolarization and cellular ATP content decrease, ultimately causing significant damage to tumor cells. Moreover, CQ@MOS can efficiently deliver chloroquine into cancer cells and promote an enhanced sonodynamic effect for effective anti-tumor chemotherapy and sonodynamic therapy. This study may enlighten us on a new anti-tumor strategy and suggest its promising applications in cancer treatments.

Anti-inflammatory effect of Piper longum L. fruit methanolic extract on lipopolysaccharide-treated RAW 264.7 murine macrophages

Context

The Piper species was studied several potential properties such as anti-tumor, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activity. However, the specific anti-inflammatory activity of the extract from the fruits of P. longum L. has not been investigated.

Objectives

Our study want to examine the anti-inflammatory effects of P. longum L. fruit methanolic extracts (PLE) on lipopolysachharide (LPS)-stimulated RAW 264.7 murine macrophages to understand the mechanism of this effect.

Method

This study examined the chemical profiling of PLE by LC-HRMS analysis and measured the presence of nitric oxide (NO), interleukin-6 (IL-6) and tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α) in the supernatant using the Griess reagent assay and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), respectively. The mRNA expression of IL-6, TNF-α, cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2), and inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) were evaluated by using real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR). Furthermore, the protein expression of COX-2, iNOS and the phosphorylation of MAPK family, c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK), p38 in protein level were observed by western blotting.

Result

PLE have detected 66 compounds which belong to different classes such as alkaloids, flavonoids, terpenoids, phenolics, lactones, and organic acids inhibited nitric oxide products with the IC50 = 28.5 ± 0.91 μg/mL. Moreover, PLE at 10-100 μg/mL up-regulate HO-1 protein expression from 3 to 10 folds at 3 h. It also downregulated the mRNA and protein expression of iNOS, COX-2, decreased IL-6 and TNF-α secretion by modulating the mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) signaling pathway, specifically by decreasing the phosphorylation of p38 and JNK.

Conclusion

These results shown chemical profiling of PLE and demonstrated that PLE exhibits anti-inflammatory effects by regulating the MAPK family and could be a potential candidate for the treatment of inflammatory diseases.

Positive Tetrahydrocurcumin-Associated Brain-Related Metabolomic Implications

Tetrahydrocurcumin (THC) is a metabolite of curcumin (CUR). It shares many of CUR's beneficial biological activities in addition to being more water-soluble, chemically stable, and bioavailable compared to CUR. However, its mechanisms of action have not been fully elucidated. This paper addresses the preventive role of THC on various brain dysfunctions as well as its effects on brain redox processes, traumatic brain injury, ischemia-reperfusion injury, Alzheimer's disease, and Parkinson's disease in various animal or cell culture models. In addition to its strong antioxidant properties, the effects of THC on the reduction of amyloid β aggregates are also well documented. The therapeutic potential of THC to treat patterns of mitochondrial brain dysmorphic dysfunction is also addressed and thoroughly reviewed, as is evidence from experimental studies about the mechanism of mitochondrial failure during cerebral ischemia/reperfusion injury. THC treatment also results in a dose-dependent decrease in ERK-mediated phosphorylation of GRASP65, which prevents further compartmentalization of the Golgi apparatus. The PI3K/AKT signaling pathway is possibly the most involved mechanism in the anti-apoptotic effect of THC. Overall, studies in various animal models of different brain disorders suggest that THC can be used as a dietary supplement to protect against traumatic brain injury and even improve brain function in Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases. We suggest further preclinical studies be conducted to demonstrate the brain-protective, anti-amyloid, and anti-Parkinson effects of THC. Application of the methods used in the currently reviewed studies would be useful and should help define doses and methods of THC administration in different disease conditions.

Co-exposure to aflatoxin B1 and therapeutic coartem worsens hepatic and renal function through enhanced oxido-inflammatory responses and apoptosis in rats

Aflatoxin B1 (AFB₁) is a mycotoxin synthesised as a secondary metabolite by members of the Aspergillus species contaminating agricultural produce. Aspergillus species thrive in tropical climes, endemic to malaria. Artemisinin-based combination therapies (ACTs) effectively treat and prevent malaria recrudescence; Coartem (COA) is an ACT whose toxicity is evident. Although there are scanty studies on COA toxicity, the scientific literature is replete on AFB₁ toxic effects -including carcinogenicity. The current research investigates AFB₁ and COA toxicity in experimental Wistar rats' hepatorenal systems. Thirty albino rats were randomly grouped into five cohorts (n = 6) and treated as follows: Group I: Untreated control (2 mL/kg of corn oil); group II: AFB₁ alone (70 μg/kg); group III: COA alone (5 mg/kg); group IV: COA and a low dose of AFB1₁ (5 mg/kg & 35 μg/kg); while Group V: COA and a high dose AFB1₂ (5 mg/kg & 70 μg/kg) by gavage. Our results show that exposure to AFB₁ and COA significantly (p < 0.05) reduced superoxide dismutase, catalase, glutathione peroxidase, and glutathione-S-transferase activities, besides reduced glutathione and total sulfhydryl groups level. Reactive oxygen and nitrogen species, lipid peroxidation, 8-hydroxy-2'-deoxyguanosine, nitric oxide, xanthine oxidase, and myeloperoxidase levels were increased (p < 0.05) in rats co-treated with COA and AFB1. Cell death was aggravated in COA and AFB1 groups, exemplified by increased Caspase-3 and 9 activities and alterations in the typical histological features of experimental rats' livers and kidneys. Finally, rats co-treated with AFB₁ and COA experienced increased hepatorenal dysregulation, oxidative and inflammatory tissue damage, and apoptotic cell death. All the observed systemic perturbations occurred dose-dependently. It is crucial, therefore, to prevent AFB₁ dietary contaminations during COA therapeutic regimen due to increased pathophysiological damage exerted on experimental rat liver and kidneys, as evidenced in this study.

Effects of combined administration of doxorubicin and chloroquine on lung pathology in mice with solid Ehrlich ascites carcinoma

Combined use of a chemotherapeutic agent and an autophagy inhibitor is a novel cancer treatment strategy. We investigated the effects of chloroquine (CQ) on lung pathology caused by both solid Ehrlich ascites carcinoma (EAC) and doxorubicin (DXR). A control group and eight experimental groups of adult female mice were inoculated subcutaneously with 2.5 × 10⁶ EAC cells. DXR (1.5 mg/kg and 3 mg/kg) and CQ (25 mg/kg and 50 mg/kg) alone or in combination were injected intraperitoneally on days 2, 7 and 12 following inoculation with EAC cells. Lung tissue samples were examined using immunohistochemistry (IHC) for endothelial (eNOS), inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) and neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin (NGAL). Serum catalase (CAT), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), superoxide dismutase (SOD) and malondialdehyde (MDA) levels were measured using ELISA. We found decreased levels of iNOS and eNOS in the groups that received 1.5 mg/kg DXR alone and in combination with 25 mg/kg and 50 mg/kg CQ. Combined administration of DXR and CQ partially prevented disruption of alveolar structure. Levels of antioxidant enzymes and MDA were lower in all treated groups; the greatest reduction was observed in mice that received the combination of 25 mg/kg CQ + 1.5 mg/kg DXR. Levels of NGAL were elevated in all treated groups. We found that CQ ameliorated both EAC and DOX induced lung pathology in female mice with solid EAC by reducing oxidative stress.

A Study on Ecotoxicological Effects of Nano-copper Oxide Particles to Portunus trituberculatus

BACKGROUND

As an important nano-material, nano-copper oxide particles (CuO-ENPs) harbor a vast range of characteristics, including an electronic correlation effect, thermal stability, catalytic activity, sterilization, and other properties. At present, the mechanism of ecotoxicological effects of CuO-ENPs is unclear and has been inconclusive. Therefore, we aimed to explore the ecotoxicological effects of nano-copper oxide particles (CuO-ENPs) on Portunus trituberculatus.

OBJECTIVE

The crabs were exposed to seawater containing different concentrations of CuO-ENPs to conduct the acute toxicity test and chronic accumulation test.

METHODS

Acute toxicity, metal accumulation, and SOD activity in different tissues were determined.

RESULTS

We found that the lethal concentration of 50% 96 h LC50 of CuO-ENPs to Portunus trituberculatus belonged to low toxicity. The accumulation of CuO-ENPs in different tissues from high to low was: gill > haemolymph > muscle > hepatopancreas > heart and stomach, and decreased gradually with time after reaching the maximum.

DISCUSSION

Subsequently, it was in a relatively steady state after a certain period and showed an obvious concentration effect. With the increment of exposure time and concentration of CuO-ENPs, the SOD activities in different tissues were quite different. In conclusion, the 96 h LC50 of CuOENPs to Portunus trituberculatus was 49 mg/L, and its toxicity belonged to low toxicity.

CONCLUSION

With the increment of exposure time and concentration of CuO-ENPs, the SOD activities in different tissues were quite different, which were increased remarkably in gill and hepatopancreas, but were suppressed at an early stage of exposure in muscle and haemolymph.

Effect of Environmental Contaminants on Antioxidant Defense System in Fringe-Lip Mullet (Crenimugil crenilabis) from Suez Canal, Egypt

Fish are widely used as model organisms for the assessment of the quality of aquatic environment and can therefore serve as bio-indicators of environmental contamination. The current research investigates the eco-physiological damage to fishes in Suez Canal for enhancing the biomonitoring of this area through the biochemical investigation, were estimated in the gills, kidney and liver of Mullet, (Crenimugil crenilabis) from Suez Canal, Egypt. This area gets a lot of wastes discharged from several industries, and it is considered as the main routes of many tankers. Crenimugil crenilabis weigh up approximately 350-600 g were fished from Nabq Managed Resource Protected Area as a control area and Suez Canal as a polluted area. Compared with control, a significant changing in the biochemical analysis results, shows that there was an initiation of oxidative stress in the tissue of Mullet from the Suez Canal which indicating the contamination status of this area.

Chloroquine and hydroxychloroquine in the treatment of COVID-19: the never-ending story

Abstract

The anti-malarial drugs chloroquine (CQ) and hydroxychloroquine (HCQ) have been suggested as promising agents against the new coronavirus SARS-CoV-2 that induces COVID-19 and as a possible therapy for shortening the duration of the viral disease. The antiviral effects of CQ and HCQ have been demonstrated in vitro due to their ability to block viruses like coronavirus SARS in cell culture. CQ and HCQ have been proposed to reduce immune reactions to infectious agents, inhibit pneumonia exacerbation, and improve lung imaging investigations. CQ analogs have also revealed the anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects in treating viral infections and related ailments. There was, moreover, convincing evidence from early trials in China about the efficacy of CQ and HCQ in the anti-COVID-19 procedure. Since then, research and studies have been massive to ascertain these drugs’ efficacy and safety in treating the viral disease. In the present review, we construct a synopsis of the main properties and current data concerning the metabolism of CQ/HCQ, which were the basis of assessing their potential therapeutic roles against the new coronavirus infection. The effective role of QC and HCQ in the prophylaxis and therapy of COVID-19 infection is discussed in light of the latest international medical-scientific research results.

Key points

• Data concerning metabolism and properties of CQ/HCQ are discussed.

• The efficacy of CQ/HCQ against COVID-19 has been the subject of contradictory results.

• CQ/HCQ has little or no effect in reducing mortality in SARS-CoV-2-affected patients.

Interaction of artemisinin protects the activity of antioxidant enzyme catalase: A biophysical study

The major antioxidant enzyme catalase is downregulated and the enzyme activity is compromised in various disease conditions such as malarial and cancer. Hence, the restoration and protection of catalase is a promising therapeutic strategy in disease management. In the present study, for the first time we have demonstrated the protective role of well-known anti-malarial drug Artemisinin (ART) on the time and temperature-induced degradation of bovine liver catalase (BLC) activity. The findings at different time intervals and at higher temperature showed the protective role of ART on BLC activity. Molecular docking studies suggested specific binding of ART on BLC through heme group interface which was further supported by cyclic voltammetry and dynamic light scattering study. The stabilization of BLC in presence of ART was mediated through forming a BLC-ART complex with reduced and shifted electrochemical peak and increased hydrodynamic diameter. ART substantially prevents the temperature-induced reduction in α-helical content with simultaneous increment in other secondary structures like antiparallel, parallel, β-turn and random coils. Nevertheless, the protective role of ART was accepted from the enhanced thermal stability and increased T_m value of BLC in presence of ART at higher temperatures. Our results uncover the mechanism of interaction between ART with BLC and suggest the protective role of ART towards spatiotemporal alteration of BLC by preventing the structural and molecular change in BLC. Thus, the findings advocate ART as a potential therapeutic drug for diseases associated with reduced catalase activity.

Age-related changes in haematological parameters and biochemical markers of healing in the stomach of rats with acetic acid induced injury

This study examined the changes in haematological and biochemical variables in response to gastric mucosa injury in male Wistar rats divided into four groups according to their ages (3, 6, 12, and 18 months). 0.2 ml of acetic acid was injected intraluminal into the stomach glandular portion of each rat for 45 seconds under anaesthesia. Collection of blood and stomach samples occurred on days 3, 7, 14 and 21 post-induction of gastric ulcer. The results obtained from this study showed 100 % area of gastric mucosa healed in 3-month old rats, 91.72 %, 68.52 % and 62.81 % area of mucosa treated in 6, 12 and 18-month old rats respectively on day 21 post-induction of gastric ulcer. Increased circulation of blood cells in younger rats occurred, neutrophil-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) was decreased in younger rats (3 and 6 months) significantly (p < 0.05) when compared to older rats (12 and 18 months). Lipid peroxidation and glutathione (GSH) levels were elevated in older rats (12 and 18 months) significantly (p < 0.05) when compared to younger rats (3 and 6 months). In comparison, superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase levels were decreased in older rats (12 and 18 months) significantly (p < 0.05) when compared to younger rats (3 and 6 months). Histological evaluation showed evidence of early healing with re-epithelialisation and angiogenesis in younger rats, but older rats showed delayed healing. The study showed that the slower rate of healing of gastric ulcer with advancing age in rats might be due to reducing circulating blood cells and anti-inflammatory activities during healing via a lipid peroxidation-dependent mechanism.

Mutagenic, Genotoxic and Immunomodulatory effects of Hydroxychloroquine and Chloroquine: a review to evaluate its potential to use as a prophylactic drug against COVID-19

Hydroxychloroquine (HCQ) and Chloroquine (CQ) are two anti-malarial drugs that are now being extensively used by front-line healthcare workers and other common people as a prophylactic drug against the Corona Virus Disease − 19 (COVID-19) in India and as well as in many parts of the world. While only a few in vitro studies have pointed to some efficacy of these drugs as a prophylactic against COVID-19, to date, there are no clinical studies that have established any clinical efficacy of these drugs as a prophylactic. These drugs are commonly used for the treatment of Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) and Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE) because of its immunomodulatory effects. Previously, we have evaluated the genetic toxicology of different drugs and chemicals including antimalarial drug CQ both in vitro and in vivo. Thus, we recognize the need to critically review the mutagenic, genotoxic, and immunomodulatory effects of these drugs, to find out whether it is safe to use as a prophylactic drug against COVID-19. Existing literature suggests that CQ can induce mutagenic and genotoxic effects in multiple test systems and both the drugs have immunomodulatory effects. There was no data available to evaluate the mutagenicity and genotoxicity for HCQ. However, during metabolism about 60% of both the drugs remain unchanged and about 40% of the drugs are metabolized into two metabolites, desethylchloroquine and bisdesethylchloroquine by the action of the cytochrome P450 (CYP) enzymes in the liver. Both HCQ and CQ are immunomodulatory drugs and have the potential to suppress normal immune system activation. In this review, we have elucidated the mechanism of immunomodulation by both HCQ and CQ and highlighted the mutagenic and genotoxic effects from the available literature. This article is written with the sole objective that the reader will be able to recognize the adverse effects of these drugs when consumed by healthy individuals as a prophylactic. Current literature indicates that healthy individuals should refrain from the use of these drugs until further investigation.

Effects of co-administration of Ganoderma terpenoid extract with chloroquine on inflammatory markers and antioxidant status in Plasmodium berghei-infected mice

OBJECTIVE

To understand the protective effects of Ganoderma terpenoid extract (GTE) against Plasmodium berghei-malarial infection in mice, the present study was carried out to evaluate the effects of GTE in combination with chloroquine disulphate (CQ) on erythrocyte-selected inflammatory markers and antioxidant defense status in P. berghei-infected mice.

METHODS

P. berghei-infected mice were divided into six groups: infected control (IC) group, administered 1 mL Tween 20; GTE₁₀₀ and GTE₂₅₀ groups, administered 100 and 250 mg/kg GTE, respectively; GT₁₀₀ + CQ and GT₂₅₀ + CQ groups, co-administered 100 and 250 mg/kg GTE plus 30 mg/kg CQ, respectively; and CQ group, administered 30 mg/kg CQ. A separate group of non-infected mice were given 1 mL Tween 20, and served as a normal control group (NC). Extract and drug were dissolved in Tween 20 and administered orally once daily for 12 consecutive days. At the end of the treatment period, mice were anesthetized with chloroform and sacrificed by cervical dislocation. Plasma was prepared from blood obtained from each mouse. Parameters evaluated at the end of the treatment period include parasitemia, red blood cell count, hematocrit, malondialdehyde (MDA), glutathione (GSH), catalase (CAT), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), superoxide dismutase (SOD), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), and interleukin-10 (IL-10).

RESULTS

Infected mice treated with a combination of GTE and CQ (GT₁₀₀ + CQ and GT₂₅₀ + CQ groups) showed significantly reduced parasitemia levels (P < 0.05) compared to those administered GTE alone as well as IC. Significant improvement in body weight (P < 0.05) was also observed in infected mice treated with a combination of GTE and CQ (GT₁₀₀ + CQ and GT₂₅₀ + CQ groups), compared to mice receiving GTE alone (GTE₁₀₀ and GTE₂₅₀ groups). Plasma MDA and TNF-α concentrations were significantly lowered, and IL-10 concentration was significantly increased in GT₁₀₀ + CQ and GT₂₅₀ + CQ groups, relative to the IC group (P < 0.05). GSH concentration and SOD, CAT and GPx activities were significantly higher in GT₁₀₀ + CQ and GT₂₅₀ + CQ groups compared to the GTE₁₀₀, GTE₂₅₀, IC and NC groups (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

Data generated in this study showed that GTE enhanced the anti-plasmodial action of CQ in mice through its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities.

Effect of a newly synthesized quinoline-based compound (PPQ-8) on murine schistosomiasis mansoni

Schistosomiasis represents a public health problem and praziquantel is the only drug used for treatment of all forms of the disease. Thus, the development of new anti-schistosomal agents is of utmost importance to increase the effectiveness, reduce side effects and delay the emergence of resistance. The present study was conducted to report the therapeutic efficacy of PPQ-8, a new synthetic quinoline-based compound against Schistosoma mansoni. Mice were treated with PPQ-8 at day 49 post infection using two treatment regimens (20 and 40 mg/kg). Significant reductions were recorded in hepatic (62.9% and 83.6%) and intestinal tissue egg load (57.4% and 73.5%), granuloma count (75.4% and 89.1%) and diameter (26.2% and 47.3%), in response to the drug regimens, respectively. In addition, both treatment regimens induced significant decrease in liver (23.3% and 32.8%) and spleen (37.5% and 45.3%) indices. Also, there were significant reductions in mature ova, total worm and female count, which were more prominent with the higher dose. The reduction in the level of nitric oxide in the liver by both therapeutic regimens to 22.5% and 47.2% indicates the anti-oxidant activity of PPQ-8. Bright field microscopic examination of worms recovered from infected and PPQ-8-treated mice showed nearly empty intestinal caeca with no observable changes in the tegument. Our findings hold promise for the development of a novel anti-schistosomal drug using PPQ-8, but further in vitro and in vivo studies are needed to elucidate the possible mechanism/s of action and to study the effect of PPQ-8 on other human schistosomes.

Response of Bambara groundnut (Vigna subterranean L.) and Maize (Zea mays L.) to heavy metal stress

Background

Plants are usually the target of environmental pollution. This study, therefore, investigates the effects of Zinc (Zn) and lead Pb on Bambara nut (Vigna subterranean) and Maize (Zea mays) at different concentrations, as well as the possible ameliorating effect of the chelant; ethylene diamine acetate (EDTA) and farmyard manure, on the enzymatic activities, the chlorophyll, total protein, and carbohydrate contents.

Results

Findings revealed that Pb and Zn increased the superoxide dismutase (SOD), peroxidase, glutathione synthetase (GSH), malondialdehyde (MDA), and catalase levels with increased concentrations from 100 mg/kg to 200 mg/kg significantly (p< 0.05) compared to the control Maize plants. While in Bambara nut, the superoxide dismutase (SOD), peroxidase, glutathione synthetase (GSH), and catalase levels decreased with increased concentrations from 100 mg/kg to 200 mg/kg compared to control except for the malondialdehyde (MDA) which was increased. For Bambara groundnut, with increased Pb concentrations, the chlorophyll content reduced from 2.94 to 2.00 mg/g. However, there was an increase (up to 4.918 mg/g) in the chlorophyll content with increased zinc nitrate concentrations augmented with EDTA at the highest concentration. Maize plants treated with Pb augmented with farmyard manure showed an increase in chlorophyll content with increased concentrations while those assisted with EDTA still experienced a decrease as metal concentrations increased. Bambara groundnut plant had a mean carbohydrate (%) of 14.79 (control), 17.60 (100 mg/kg of Pb concentration) and 11.20 (200 mg/kg of Pb concentration), indicating a decrease in carbohydrate content with increased Pb concentrations. The same trend was observed for the different Zn and Pb concentrations on the mean total proteins and carbohydrates of both test plants. Generally, Pb and Zn induced oxidative stress in treated plants.

Conclusions

Elevated activity of anti-oxidative enzymes can assist as important components of antioxidative defense mechanism against oxidative damage. The results of this study could be beneficial in the understanding of the role of the defense system as well as the detoxification mechanism ofVigna subterraneanandZea maysin efficient tolerance and response to Pb and Zn. This signifies that these plants can act as bioindicators in environmental quality assessment.

Protective effects of a novel pyrazolecarboxamide derivative against lead nitrate induced oxidative stress and DNA damage in Clarias gariepinus

Pyrazole derivatives display diverse biological and pharmacological activities. The aim of this study is to investigate the antioxidant properties of a novel pyrazolecarboxamide derivative (4-amino-N-[(4-chlorophenyl)]-3-methyl-1-phenyl-1H-thieno [2, 3-c] pyrazole-5-carboxamide) in African catfish, Clarias gariepinus, exposed to 1 mg/L PbNO₃. Fish were intramuscularly injected with pyrazole-5-carboxamidederivative according to the following groupings: Group 1 (control), Group 2 (1 mg/L lead nitrate), Group 3 (1 mg/L lead nitrate + 5 mg pyrazole derivative/kg body weight), and Group 4 (1 mg/L lead nitrate + 10 mg pyrazole derivative/kg body weight) for two weeks and four weeks. Lead nitrate (1 mg/L) caused significant elevation of serum aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), creatinine, uric acid, cholesterol, and glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PDH) compared to the control group after two and four weeks of exposure, while serum total lipids, alkaline phosphatase (ALP), and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) were significantly reduced compared to the control group. Furthermore, levels of antioxidant enzymes superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT) and total antioxidant capacity (TAC) were reduced in group 2 compared to the control group. However, in group 2, hepatic lipid peroxidation (LPO) and DNA fragmentation percentage were significantly increased compared to the control group. Histopathological changes in the liver of lead-exposed groups included marked disturbance of hepatic tissue organization, degeneration of hepatocytes, dilation of blood sinusoids and the central vein as well as necrosis. Injection of pyrazole derivative for two weeks and four weeks reversed alterations in biochemical parameters, antioxidant biomarkers, lipid peroxidation, hepatic DNA damage, and histopathological changes in liver tissue induced by 1 mg/L lead nitrate. This amelioration was higher in response to high-dose pyrazole derivative (10 mg) at the fourth week of exposure, showing concentration-and time-dependency. Overall, the sensitized derivative pyrazolecarboxamide is likely a useful tool to minimize the effects of lead toxicity due to its potent antioxidant activity.

Effects of artemisinin, with or without lumefantrine and amodiaquine on gastric ulcer healing in rat

Background

Antimalarial drugs have been shown to predispose the stomach to ulceration in rats. However, their role in the modulation of gastric ulcer healing is not known. The aim of the present study is to investigate the effect of artemisinin-based combination therapies on ulcer healing.

Methods

Gastric kissing ulcers were induced in 40 male albino rats (150–180 g) using 0.2 mL 50% acetic acid. One day after the ulcer induction, experimental rats were divided into four groups and treated once daily orally for 3 days as follows: (1) normal saline, (2) artemether-lumefantrine (2/12 mg/kg), (3) artesunate-amodiaquine (4/10 mg/kg), and (4) artesunate (2 mg/kg) only. A fifth group of 10 rats served as overall control with no ulcer induced and no treatment given. Ulcer healing was determined on days 4 and 7 post induction using ulcer score and planimetry.

Results

Artesunate decreased ulcer severity by 12.5% and 52.0% on days 4 and 7, respectively. Significant increases in severity were observed in rats treated with artemether-lumefantrine (25.0% and 40.0%) and artesunate-amodiaquine (50.0% and 95.0%). Lipid peroxidation was decreased by artesunate by day 7 (27%; p<0.05) but increased in artemether-lumefantrine and artesunate-amodiaquine administered rats (63.6% and 55%; p<0.05). The activity of superoxide dismutase was reduced by artesunate-amodiaquine on day 7 (22%; p<0.05) but no effect in the artemether-lumefantrine treatment. Neutrophil infiltration, total leukocyte count, neutrophil-lymphocyte ratio, and C-reactive protein values were significantly increased in the artemether-lumefantrine and artesunate-amodiaquine treated groups when compared with the untreated ulcer control group (p<0.05). These variables were all reduced by artesunate (p<0.05).

Conclusions

This study revealed that although artesunate may be beneficial in gastric ulcer healing, its combination with either lumefantrine or amodiaquine may delay healing of gastric mucosal injury.

The protective role of Spirulina platensis to alleviate the Sodium dodecyl sulfate toxic effects in the catfish Clarias gariepinus (Burchell, 1822)

Sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS) as anionic surfactant is common in household and personal care products and reach in the aquatic ecosystems from different applications. Present work aimed to study the effects of SDS and the potential ameliorative influence of Spirulina platensis (SP) in the African catfish Clarias gariepinus. Fish was exposed to SDS and SP, individually or in combination in four equal groups for two weeks. The 1st group (control), 2nd group (SDS-treated), 3rd group (SDS, 0.1 mg L^-1 + SP, 100 mg L^-1 water) and 4th group (SDS, 0.1 mg L^-1 + SP, 200 mg L^-1). Serum samples were used to analyze hepatic and renal functions, electrolytes, genetic, and antioxidant biomarkers. The results revealed that SDS exposure induced hepatic and renal dysfunction, electrolytes imbalance, as well as significant disruption in enzymatic and non-enzymatic antioxidants, and increase in alterations, micronuclei and apoptosis percentages in erythrocytes. SP addition restored these biochemical and genetic variations close to control levels. Thus, the present study suggests that SP could protect the catfish against SDS-induced injury by scavenging ROS, sustaining the antioxidant status and diminishing DNA oxidative damage.

Interactive effects of alcohol and chloroquine on hematologic profile of Wistar rats

Background

There is paucity of information on the adverse effects of alcohol – chloroquine interaction on hematological parameters. To investigate the effects of concurrent administration of chloroquine and ethanol on hematologic parameters of adult Wistar rats and the ameliorative role of vitamin B12and folic acid supplementation on any adverse effects.

Methods

Some 30 adult Wistar rats weighing 120–200 g were assigned to six major groups of five rats each according to their weights. The control group A was fed with normal rat chow and water. The experimental groups B–F were administered with drugs for a period of 7 days as follows: B (chloroquine only); C (ethanol only); D (chloroquine+ethanol); E (chloroquine+ethanol+vitamin B12); and F (chloroquine+ethanol+vitamin B12+folic acid). Blood samples were collected from each animal by cardiac puncture to determine red blood cell (RBC) count, white blood cell (WBC) count, packed cell volume (PCV), hemoglobin (Hb), mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration, mean cell volume (MCV), and mean cell hemoglobin (MCH). Liver enzymes, aspartate aminotransferase (AST), and alanine aminotransferase (ALT) were analyzed to test for liver function.

Results

Group D indicated lower PCV, Hb, MCV, MCH, and greater WBC compared with control. Group E indicated greater (p<0.05) PCV, Hb, and RBC compared with Group D. Greater (p<0.05) MCV and MCH, and lower WBC and RBC were observed in Group F compared with Group D. Furthermore, Group D rats indicated greater (p<0.05) mean AST and ALT compared with Groups A, E, and F.

Conclusions

Concurrent administration of chloroquine and alcohol indicated adverse effects on hematologic parameters of Wistar rats. The administration of vitamin B12and folic acid appeared to ameliorate these adverse effects.

Preadministration of Fermented Sorghum Diet Provides Protection against Hyperglycemia-Induced Oxidative Stress and Suppressed Glucose Utilization in Alloxan-Induced Diabetic Rats

Sorghum bicolor grains are rich in phytochemicals known to considerably impact human health. Several health-promoting products such as flour, staple food, and beverages have been produced from sorghum grains. This study investigated the protective and modulatory effects of a sorghum diet on the genes of some antioxidant and glycolytic enzymes in alloxan-induced diabetic rats. The rats were randomly distributed into six groups: the control group received normal diet, while the other groups were pretreated with 12.5, 25, 50, 75, and 100% of the sorghum diets daily for 8 weeks before the administration of a dose of alloxan (100 mg/kg BW), after which blood was collected and the liver was excised. The effects of the diets on blood glucose levels, liver dysfunction indices, and markers of oxidative stress were assessed spectrophotometrically, while the gene expressions of key glycolytic enzymes and enzymatic antioxidants were assayed using reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction. It was observed that the pretreatment of the experimental animals with the diets normalized the blood glucose before and after the administration of alloxan. The sorghum-treated groups also showed statistically significant (p < 0.05) decrease in liver dysfunction indices and markers of oxidative damage compared with the control. In addition, statistically the diets significantly decreased (p < 0.05) the relative expression of superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidase, glucokinase, phosphofructokinase, and hexokinase genes in the experimental animals compared with the control. Overall, this study showed that the preadministration of fermented sorghum diet significantly protected against hyperglycemia and suppressed glucose utilization via glycolysis in the liver of alloxan-induced diabetic rats. Thus, the consumption of sorghum diet may protect against hyperglycemia and oxidative damage and may therefore serve as functional food for management of diabetic mellitus.

Endocrine disruption, oxidative stress, and testicular damage induced by 4-nonylphenol in Clarias gariepinus: the protective role of Cydonia oblonga

Exposure to xenoestrogens like 4-nonylphenol (NP) is recognized by disrupting endocrine functions and causes reproductive dysfunction in male fish. The present study aimed at investigating the 4-nonylphenol propensity to induce oxidative stress and hormonal disturbances in male catfish and at studying the protective role of quince (Cydonia oblonga). To fulfill this aim, catfish Clarias gariepinus were exposed to pure 100 μg/L 4-NP and to quince the leaf extract added to 4-NP, both for 15 days. The 4-NP exposure induced a marked increase in 17ß-estradiol (E2), LH, and cortisol, while thyroid hormone (TSH, T3), testosterone (T), and FSH levels noticeably decreased; however, 4-NP had no effect on T4 level. Moreover, 4-NP exposure was accompanied by histological impairments in testes. Existence of 4-NP was associated with oxidative damage as evidenced by the significant increase (p < 0.05) of the enzymes, superoxidase dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), acetylcholinesterase (AchE), glutathione s-transferase, total antioxidant capacity (TAC), and malondialdehyde (MDA). Adding quince was effective to neutralize hormonal levels and to repair the testicular histological alterations. In response to quince remedy, the enzymes AchE and MDA reduced significantly (p < 0.05), while limited or no response was detected for other tested enzymes. Our results concluded that quince can antagonize 4-NP toxicity in catfish, confirming that quince leaf extract displayed antioxidant activities against the toxicity of hazardous chemicals.

Investigation of biochemical and histopathological effects of Mentha piperitaLabiatae and Mentha spicata Labiatae on liver tissue in rats

The plant Mentha piperita, or peppermint, is commonly used in the treatment of loss of appetite, common cold, bronchitis, sinusitis, fever, nausea and vomiting, and indigestion as a herbal agent. In this study, we aimed to investigate biochemical and histological effects of M. piperita Labiatae, growing in the Yenisar Bademli town of Isparta city, and Mentha spicata Labiatae, growing in the Anamas high plateau of the Yenisar Bademli town, on the rat liver tissue. Forty-eight male Wistar albino rats weighing 200-250 g were used for this study. Rats were divided into four groups of 12 animals: Group I received no herbal tea (control group); Group II received 20 g/L M. piperita tea; Group III received 20 g/L M. spicata tea; and Group IV received 40 g/L M. spicata tea. Herbal teas were prepared daily and provided at all times to the rats during 30 days as drinking water. Liver function tests, including aspartate aminotransferase (AST/GOT) and alanine aminotransferase (ALT/GPT) activities were measured. To evaluate liver antioxidant defences, superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px), cata lase (CAT) and thiobarbituric acid reactive substance (TBARS) activities were determined in the homogenates of liver tissue. In addition, liver tissues were submitted for histopathologic examination. AST and ALT activities were increased in Group II, Group III and Group IV gradually when compared with the control group. The difference between Group II and the control group was not statistically significant (P > 0.016). Increases in AST and ALT activities of Group III and Group IV were statistically significant when compared with the control group. SOD, GSH-Px and CAT activities were increased in Group II when compared with the control group but the difference was not statistically significant (P > 0.016). However, SOD, GSH-Px activities and the TBARS level were significantly increased, and CAT activity was significantly decreased in Group III when compared with the control group. In Group IV, while SOD, GSH-Px and CAT activities were decreased, the TBARS level was increased as compared with the control group (P < 0.0016). Histopathological evaluation of experimental groups revealed a mild to severe degree of hepatic damage when compared to the control group. In Group II, there was only minimal hepatocytes degeneration. In Groups III and IV, there were granular or ballooning hepatocyte degeneration and necrosis, sinusoidal and central vein dilatation. It was concluded that lipid peroxidation and hepatic damage occurs after M. piperita and M. spicata administration in rat liver and the damage seems to be dose dependent.

Monosodium glutamate-induced oxidative damage and genotoxicity in the rat: modulatory role of vitamin C, vitamin E and quercetin

Monosodium glutamate (MSG) continues to function as a flavor enhancer in West African and Asian diets. The present study examines the modulatory effects of dietary antioxidant vitamin C (VIT C), vitamin E (VIT E) and quercetin on MSG-induced oxidative damage in the liver, kidney and brain of rats. In addition, the effect of these antioxidants on the possible genotoxicity of MSG was investigated in a rat bone marrow micronuclei model.

MSG administered intraperitoneally at a dose of 4 mg/g body wt markedly increase malondialdehyde (MDA) formation in the liver, the kidney and brain of rats. Simultaneous administration of VIT C, VIT E and quercetin to MSG-treated rats significantly reduced this increase in MDA induced by MSG. VIT E reduced lipid peroxidation most in the liver followed by VIT C and then quercetin, while VIT C and quercetin showed a greater ability to protect the brain from membrane damage than VIT E.

The decreased glutathione (GSH) level elicited by MSG in the three organs corresponded with marked increase in the activity of glutathione-S-transferase (GST). While MSG increased (P B / 0.001) the activities of superoxide dismutase and catalase in the liver, it decreased significantly the activities of these enzymes in the kidney and the brain. The three antioxidants were effective at ameliorating the effects of MSG on GSH levels and the enzymes in the three organs examined. While MSG increased the activity of glucose-6-phosphatase in the liver and kidneys of rats (P B / 0.001), the activity of the enzyme was abysmally low in the brain. There were marked increases in the activities of alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase and g-glutamyl transferase in rats treated with MSG. The antioxidants tested protected against MSG-induced liver toxicity significantly.

MSG at a dose of 4 mg/g significantly (P B / 0.01) induced the formation of micronucleated polychromatic erythrocytes (MNPCEs). Co-treatment of rats with VIT C and quercetin inhibited the induction of MNPCEs by MSG (P B / 0.001). VIT E failed to protect against MSG-induced genotoxicity.

The results indicate that dietary antioxidants have protective potential against oxidative stress induced by MSG and, in addition, suggest that active oxygen species may play an important role in its genotoxicity.

Antioxidant and antiapoptotic activities of Calotropis procera latex on Catfish (Clarias gariepinus) exposed to toxic 4-nonylphenol

Calotropis procera L. is known as medicinal plant. The Phytochemical analyzes of its latex revealed that it possessed antioxidants, namely terpenes, phenolic compounds and cardenolides, flavonoids and saponins, while tannins, alkaloids and resin were absent in moderate to high concentration. In the present study, the role of latex of Calotropis procera as antioxidant and antiapoptotic was reported. To carry out this aim, fishes were exposed to 100 µg l(-1) 4-nonylphenol as chemical pollutant. The enzymes, superoxidase dismutase, catalase, acetlycholinstrase (AchE), glutathione s-transferase, cortisol, G6PDH) and apoptotic cells increased significantly (p<0.05) accompanied by irregular disturbance of (Na(+), K(+)) ions in the presence of 4-nonylphenol. On the other hand, these enzymes, ions, and apoptotic cells decreased normally and significantly (p<0.05) in the presence of latex. Total phenol content, total capacity antioxidant, reducing power decrease significantly (p<0.05) in the presence of 4-nonylphenol and increase normally in the presence of latex. Latex was used for the first time to protect catfish after 4-nonylphenol exposure. Our study confirms that crude latex of Calotropis procera possessed antioxidant and antiapoptotic activities against the toxicity of 4-Nonylphenol.

The genotoxicity and systemic toxicity of a pharmaceutical effluent in Wistar rats may involve oxidative stress induction

There is scarcity of information on the possible mechanisms of pharmaceutical effluent induced genotoxicity and systemic toxicity. This study investigated the genotoxicity and systemic toxicity of a pharmaceutical effluent in Wistar rats. Rats were orally treated with 5-50% concentrations of the effluent for 28 days. At post-exposure, blood, liver, kidney and bone marrow cells were examined for alterations in serum biochemical parameters and hematological indices, histopathological lesions and micronucleated polychromatic erythrocytes formation (MNPCE). The effluent caused concentration independent significant (p < 0.05) alterations in aspartate (AST) and alanine (ALT) aminotransferases, superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), malondialdehyde (MDA), total and direct bilirubin and creatinine. There was reduction in red blood count (RBC), hemoglobin concentration (HGB), platelets, percentage hematocrit (HCT), white blood count (WBC) and mean corpuscle hemoglobin (MCH) except mean corpuscle hemoglobin concentration (MCHC), which increased in the treated rats. Histopathological lesions observed in the liver and kidney of the effluent treated rats were thinning of the hepatic cord, kuffer cell hyperplasia, vacuolation of the hepatocytes and renal cells, multifocal inflammatory changes, necrosis and congestion of the renal blood vessels and central vein. MNPCE significantly increase in the bone marrow of the treated rats compared to the negative control. The concentration of some toxic metals and anions in the effluent were above standard permissible limits. These findings showed that the pharmaceutical effluent caused somatic DNA damage and systemic toxicity in rats may involve induction of oxidative stress, suggesting environmental contamination and health risks in wildlife and humans.

Ameliorative Effect of Gallic Acid on Cyclophosphamide-Induced Oxidative Injury and Hepatic Dysfunction in Rats

Cyclophosphamide (CP), a bifunctional alkylating agent used in chemotherapy has been reported to induce organ toxicity mediated by generation of reactive oxygen species and oxidative stress. Gallic acid (GA), a phenolic substance, is a natural antioxidant with proven free radical scavenging activity and offers protection against oxidative damage. This research study was designed to investigate the ameliorative effect of GA against CP-induced toxicity in rats. Twenty-five male Wistar rats (180-200 g) were randomized into five treatment groups: (A) control, (B) CP, 2 mg/kg body weight (b.w.), (C) pre-treatment with GA (20 mg/kg b.w.) for seven days followed by CP (2 mg/kg b.w.) for seven days, (D) co-treatment with GA (20 mg/kg b.w) and CP (2 mg/kg b.w.) for seven days, and (E) GA (20 mg/kg b.w.) for seven days. CP induced marked renal and hepatic damages as plasma levels of urea, creatinine, bilirubin and activities of AST, ALT, ALP and GGT were significantly elevated (p < 0.05) in the CP-treated group relative to control. In addition, hepatic levels of GSH, vitamin C and activities of SOD, catalase and GST significantly reduced in the CP-treated group when compared with control. This was accompanied with a significant increase in hepatic lipid peroxidation. The restoration of the markers of renal and hepatic damages as well as antioxidant indices and lipid peroxidation by pre- and co-treatment with GA clearly shows that GA offers ameliorative effect by scavenging the reactive oxygen species generated by CP. This protective effect may be attributed to the antioxidant property of gllic acid.

Influence of Different Doses of Levofloxacin on Antioxidant Defense Systems and Markers of Renal and Hepatic Dysfunctions in Rats

Levofloxacin (LFX) is a broad spectrum fluoroquinolone antibiotic used in the treatment of infections such as pneumonia, chronic bronchitis, and sinusitis. The present study assessed the likely toxic effect of LFX on hepatic and renal tissues in rats. Twenty male Wistar rats were randomly divided into four treatment groups: A: control, B: 5 mg/kg bw LFX (half therapeutic dose), C: 10 mg/kg bw LFX (therapeutic dose), and D: 20 mg/kg bw LFX (double therapeutic dose). After seven days of administration, result indicated significant (P<0.05) increase in plasma ALT, AST, and ALP activities in the treated groups compared to control. Also, there was a significant increase in plasma creatinine, urea, and total bilirubin in the treated groups relative to control. Plasma total cholesterol, HDL-cholesterol, LDL-cholesterol, and triglycerides also increased significantly in the treated groups relative to control. Also, hepatic MDA level increased significantly in all the treated groups. However, hepatic SOD, catalase, and GST activities were significantly reduced in the LFX-treated animals. Moreover, GSH and ascorbic acid levels were significantly decreased in the LFX-treated groups relative to control. In conclusion, three doses of levofloxacin depleted antioxidant defense system and induced oxidative stress and hepatic and renal dysfunctions in rats.

Kolaviron and L-ascorbic Acid attenuate chlorambucil-induced testicular oxidative stress in rats

Chlorambucil (4-[4-[bis(2-chloroethyl)amino]phenyl]butanoic acid) is an alkylating agent, indicated in chronic lymphocytic leukaemia. Kolaviron (KV), a biflavonoid complex from Garcinia kola, and L-ascorbic acid (AA) are known to protect against oxidative damage in vivo. This study evaluates the protective capacity of KV and AA on chlorambucil-induced oxidative stress in the testes of rat. Twenty male Wistar rats (180–200 g) were randomized into four groups: I: control, II: chlorambucil (0.2 mg/kg b.w.), III: 0.2 mg/kg chlorambucil and 100 mg/kg KV, and IV: 0.2 mg/kg chlorambucil and 100 mg/kg AA. After 14 days of treatments, results indicated that chlorambucil caused significant reduction (P < 0.05) in testicular vitamin C and glutathione by 32% and 39%, respectively, relative to control. Similarly, activities of testicular GST, SOD, and CAT reduced significantly by 48%, 47%, and 49%, respectively, in chlorambucil-treated rats relative to control. Testicular MDA and activities of ALP, LDH, and ACP were increased significantly by 53%, 51%, 64%, and 70%, respectively, in the chlorambucil-treated rat. However, cotreatment with KV and AA offered protection and restored the levels of vitamin C, GSH, and MDA as well as SOD, CAT, GST, ACP, ALP, and LDH activities. Overall, kolaviron and L-ascorbic acid protected against chlorambucil-induced damage in the testes of the rat.

Acute pretreatment with chloroquine attenuates renal I/R injury in rats

BACKGROUND

Acute kidney injury (AKI) still remains an unresolved problem in pharmacotherapy and renal inflammation is a major factor in its development. Chloroquine, a well-known antimalarial drug, posses pleitropic effects as well: antiinflammatory, anticoagulant and vascular actions. The effects of chloroquine on renal function may involve significant increase in urine flow rate, glomerular filtration rate and sodium excretion, as well as stimulation of nitric oxide synthase. However, its role in experimental models of renal I/R injury is unknown. We aimed to analyze the acute effects of a single-dose intravenous chloroquine administered at three different times in the experimental model of I/R injury in rat.

METHODS

Rats were subjected to bilateral renal ischemia (45 min) followed by reperfusion with saline lasting 4 hours. Chloroquine was administered in doses of 0.3 mg/kg i.v. and 3 mg/kg i.v. 30 min before ischemia, 30 min before reperfusion and 5 min before reperfusion. Selected a hemodynamic, biochemical and morphological parameters were followed in the Sham-operated animals and rats subjected to I/R injury and pretreated with saline or chloroquine.

RESULTS

Chloroquine (0.3 and 3 mg/kg, i.v.) protected the I/R injured kidney in an U-shaped manner. Both doses were protective regarding biochemical and histological markers of the I/R injury (serum urea, creatinine and fractional excretion of sodium, as well as total histological score, tubular necrosis score and KIM-1 staining score) (P<0.05 vs. corresponding controls, i.e. rats subjected to I/R injury and treated with saline only). The protective effects of the lower dose of chloroquine were more profound. Time-related differences between pretreatments were not observed (P>0.05, all).

CONCLUSION

Our study shows for the first time that a single dose of chloroquine (0.3 mg/kg i.v.) could afford significant protection of the injured rat kidney.

Metformin suppresses expression of the selenoprotein P gene via an AMP-activated kinase (AMPK)/FoxO3a pathway in H4IIEC3 hepatocytes

Selenoprotein P (SeP; encoded by SEPP1 in humans) is a liver-derived secretory protein that induces insulin resistance in type 2 diabetes. Suppression of SeP might provide a novel therapeutic approach to treating type 2 diabetes, but few drugs that inhibit SEPP1 expression in hepatocytes have been identified to date. The present findings demonstrate that metformin suppresses SEPP1 expression by activating AMP-activated kinase (AMPK) and subsequently inactivating FoxO3a in H4IIEC3 hepatocytes. Treatment with metformin reduced SEPP1 promoter activity in a concentration- and time-dependent manner; this effect was cancelled by co-administration of an AMPK inhibitor. Metformin also suppressed Sepp1 gene expression in the liver of mice. Computational analysis of transcription factor binding sites conserved among the species resulted in identification of the FoxO-binding site in the metformin-response element of the SEPP1 promoter. A luciferase reporter assay showed that metformin suppresses Forkhead-response element activity, and a ChIP assay revealed that metformin decreases binding of FoxO3a, a direct target of AMPK, to the SEPP1 promoter. Transfection with siRNAs for Foxo3a, but not for Foxo1, cancelled metformin-induced luciferase activity suppression of the metformin-response element of the SEPP1 promoter. The overexpression of FoxO3a stimulated SEPP1 promoter activity and rescued the suppressive effect of metformin. Metformin did not affect FoxO3a expression, but it increased its phosphorylation and decreased its nuclear localization. These data provide a novel mechanism of action for metformin involving improvement of systemic insulin sensitivity through the regulation of SeP production and suggest an additional approach to the development of anti-diabetic drugs.

Acute ZnO nanoparticles exposure induces developmental toxicity, oxidative stress and DNA damage in embryo-larval zebrafish

Nano-scale zinc oxide (nano-ZnO) is widely used in various industrial and commercial applications. However, the available toxicological information was inadequate to assess the potential ecological risk of nano-ZnO to aquatic organisms and the publics. In this study, the developmental toxicity, oxidative stress and DNA damage of nano-ZnO embryos were investigated in the embryo-larval zebrafish, the toxicity of Zn(2+) releasing from nano-ZnO were also investigated to ascertain the relationship between the nano-ZnO and corresponding Zn(2+). Zebrafish embryos were exposed to 1, 5, 10, 20, 50, and 100mg/L nano-ZnO and 0.59, 2.15, 3.63, 4.07, 5.31, and 6.04 mg/L Zn(2+) for 144 h post-fertilisation (hpf), respectively. Up to 144 hpf, activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT) and glutathione peroxidase (GPx), and malondialdehyde (MDA) contents, the genes related to oxidative damage, reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation and DNA damage in zebrafish embryos were measured. The nano-ZnO was found to exert a dose-dependent toxicity to zebrafish embryos and larvae, reducing the hatching rate and inducing malformation and the acute toxicity to zebrafish embryos was greater than that of the Zn(2+) solution. The generation of ROS was significantly increased at 50 and 100mg/L nano-ZnO. DNA damage of zebrafish embryo was evaluated by single-cell gel electrophoresis and was enhanced with increasing nano-ZnO concentration. Moreover, the transcriptional expression of mitochondrial inner membrane genes related to ROS production, such as Bcl-2, in response to oxidative damage, such as Nqo1, and related to antioxidant response element such as Gstp2 were significantly down-regulated in the nano-ZnO treatment groups. However, the nano-ZnO up-regulated the transcriptional expression of Ucp2-related to ROS production. In conclusion, nano-ZnO induces developmental toxicity, oxidative stress and DNA damage on zebrafish embryos and the dissolved Zn(2+) only partially contributed to the toxicity of nano-ZnO. The adverse effects of nano-ZnO may be the important mechanisms of its toxicity to zebrafish embryos.

Effect of exposure to solid wastes in relation to employment duration on some important markers of health and disease in waste management workers of Ogun State in southwest Nigeria

Waste management workers (WMWs) around the world are at risk of work-related health disorders. The influence of employment duration on individuals occupationally exposed to solid waste was investigated in this study. The study comprised (n = 280) 180 WMWs and 100 controls. Employment duration was obtained from questionnaire survey and categorized into three groups: group I (0.5-2 years), group II (>2-4 years) and group III (>4-6 years). Blood sample (10 ml) was collected from the antecubital vein of subjects for analysis. WMWs exhibited significantly (p < 0.001) elevated inflammatory markers (erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), C-reactive protein (CRP) and ceruloplasmin (Cp)) relative to control. While Cp increased, ESR and CRP decreased with increasing WMWs' employment duration. Alteration in oxidant/antioxidant markers was characterized by significant (p < 0.001) decrease in ferric-reducing ability of plasma (FRAP) and catalase activity together with marked (p < 0.01) elevation of thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS) and uric acid (UA). TBARS, UA and FRAP increased while catalase decreased with WMWs' employment duration. In addition, WMWs exhibited significantly (p < 0.01) elevated immunoglobulin A (IgA) and IgG, which also increased and decreased, respectively, with job duration. The significantly (p < 0.01) decreased haemoglobin and haematocrit levels as well as the significantly (p < 0.001) elevated total leukocytes in WMWs increased with employment duration. Alanine aminotransferase increased and albumin decreased significantly (p < 0.05) in WMWs, and these changes also increased and decreased, respectively, with job duration. Data suggest that levels of alteration of important systemic markers of health/disease are related to WMWs' employment or exposure duration.

Relationship between household air pollution from biomass smoke exposure, and pulmonary dysfunction, oxidant-antioxidant imbalance and systemic inflammation in rural women and children in Nigeria

Background:

Exposure to particulate matter from burning biomass fuels is believed to affect oxidant-antioxidant balance and to induce oxidative stress.

Methods:

Fifty-nine mother-child pairs from 59 households that used firewood exclusively for cooking in three rural communities in southwest Nigeria underwent blood test for albumin, pre-albumin, retinol-binding protein (RBP), superoxide dismutase (SOD), vitamins C, vitamin E, malondialdehyde (MDA) and C-reactive protein (CRP). Spirometry was performed and indoor levels of PM_2.5 were determined.

Results:

Mean age (± SD; years) of mothers and children was 43.0±11.7 and 13.6±3.2, respectively. The median indoor PM_2.5 level was 1575.1 µg/m³ (IQR 943.6–2847.0, p<0.001), which is substantially higher than the World Health Organization (WHO) standard of 25 µg/m³. The mean levels of pre-albumin (0.21±0.14 g/dL) and RBP (0.03±0.03 g/dL) in women were significantly lower than their respective normal ranges (1-3 g/dL and 0.2-0.6 g/dL, respectively, p<0.05). Similarly, the mean levels of pre-albumin (0.19±0.13 g/dL) and RBP (0.01±0.01 g/dL) in children were significantly lower than the respective normal ranges (1-3 g/dL and 0.2-0.6 g/dL, respectively, p<0.05). Mean serum concentrations of MDA in children (5.44±1.88 µmol/L) was positively correlated to serum concentrations of CRP (r=0.3, p=0.04) and negatively correlated to lung function (FEV₁/FVC) in both mothers and children (both r=-0.3, p<0.05). Also, regression analysis indicates that CRP and SOD are associated with lung function impairment in mothers (-2.55±1.08, p<0.05) and children (-5.96±3.05, p=0.05) respectively.

Conclusion:

Exposure to HAP from biomass fuel is associated with pulmonary dysfunction, reduced antioxidant defense and inflammation of the airways. Further studies are needed to better define causal relationships and the mechanisms involved.

Antimalarial drug chloroquine counteracts activation of indoleamine (2,3)-dioxygenase activity in human PBMC

Antimalarial chloroquine is also used for the treatment of immune-mediated diseases. The interference of chloroquine with interferon-γ-induced tryptophan breakdown and neopterin production has been investigated in human peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) in vitro. Micromolar concentrations (2–50 μM) of chloroquine dose-dependently suppressed mitogen-induced tryptophan breakdown in PBMC but not in the myelomonocytic THP-1-Blue cell line, after 48 h of treatment. In stimulated PBMC, neopterin production was super-induced by 10 μM chloroquine, while it was significantly suppressed at a concentration of 50 μM. These anti-inflammatory effects may relate to the therapeutic benefit of chloroquine in inflammatory conditions and may widen the spectrum of its clinical applications.

The levels of inflammatory markers and oxidative stress in individuals occupationally exposed to municipal solid waste in Ogun State, South West Nigeria

Airway inflammation and related respiratory complaints are common symptoms among waste management workers (WMWs). This study investigated the relationship between exposure to municipal solid waste (MSW) and the levels of inflammatory markers and oxidative stress among WMW of Ogun State, South West Nigeria. A total of 280 subjects consisting of 180 WMW and 100 controls were recruited. Ten millilitres of blood were collected from antecubital vein of the subjects for analysis. Results reveal that exposure to MSW is associated with systemic inflammation and oxidative stress. Significant ( p < 0.001) elevation of ceruloplasmin (Cp) and C-reactive protein was associated with marked decreases in superoxide dismutase ( p < 0.01), catalase ( p < 0.001), and glutathione ( p < 0.05) and significant ( p < 0.001) increases in malondialdehyde (MDA) and uric acid when compared with control. Haematological disorders include significant ( p < 0.05) decreases in haemoglobin, packed cell volume, and mean corpuscular volume and significant ( p < 0.01) increase in total leucocyte count. Apart from decreased albumin ( p < 0.05) and elevated aspartate aminotransferase ( p < 0.05) activity observed in WMW, other markers of hepatic (alanine aminotransferase, alkaline phosphatase, total cholesterol and triglycerides) and renal (urea and creatinine) functions did not change significantly ( p > 0.05) when compared with the control. A positive correlation between leucocytes ( r = 0.195, p < 0.01), Cp ( r = 0.210, p < 0.01) and job duration and between Cp and MDA ( r = 0.200, p < 0.01) and Cp and leucocytes ( r = 0.260, p < 0.001) were observed in WMW. Overall, exposure to MSW predisposes to systemic inflammation and oxidative stress and Cp may be a useful biomarker for monitoring health status of Nigerian WMWs.

Oxidative stress parameters and antioxidant response to sublethal waterborne zinc in a euryhaline teleost Fundulus heteroclitus: protective effects of salinity

Zinc is an essential trace metal, but many aspects of its toxicity remain unclear. In this study, we investigated zinc effects on oxidative stress parameters and antioxidant profile in four tissues (gill, liver, kidney, and white muscle) of Fundulus heteroclitus. Possible interactive effects of salinity were also studied. Killifish were exposed to sublethal level (500 μgL(-1)) of waterborne zinc for 96 h in 0% (fresh water), 10% (3.5 ppt), 30% (10.5 ppt) and 100% sea water (35 ppt). Salinity per se had no effect on any parameter in the control groups. Zinc exposure clearly induced oxidative stress, and responses were qualitatively similar amongst different tissues. Salinity acted as a strong protective factor, with the highest levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and greatest damage (protein carbonyls, lipid peroxidation as indicated by thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS) in 0 ppt, the least in 100% sea water (35 ppt), and gradations in between in many of the observed responses. Increases in total oxidative scavenging capacity (TOSC) occurred at higher salinities, correlated with increases in the activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and glutathione-S-tranferase (GST), as well as in tissue glutathione (GSH) concentrations. However, TOSC was depleted in zinc-exposed fish at 0 ppt, accompanied by decreases in SOD, GST, GSH, and also catalase (CAT) activity. Our results confirm that sublethal waterborne zinc is an oxidative stressor in fish, and highlight the important protective role of higher salinities in ameliorating the oxidative stress associated with zinc toxicity in this model estuarine teleost.

Effect of folic acid supplementation on oxidative gastric mucosa damage and acid secretory response in the rat

Objective:

This study investigated the antioxidative and antisecretory properties of folic acid in the rats’ stomach.

Materials and Methods:

Male Wistar rats were treated with 2 mg/kg diet of folic acid for 21 days. Gastric ulceration was induced by indomethacin, scored, and assayed to determine the concentration of total protein, mucus, malondialdehyde (MDA), catalase (CAT) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) in homogenized samples. Normal saline and Ranitidine treated group served as negative and positive control, respectively. Basal and stimulated acid secretion was measured by continuous perfusion method.

Result:

Indomethacin caused severe damage to the rats’ stomach with an ulcer index of 4.32 ± 0.13, increase in MDA concentration and reduction in the concentration of protein, mucus, catalase and superoxide dismutase (P < 0.001). Pre-treatment with folic acid prevented the formation of ulcers by 32%, and attenuated the inhibition of mucus by 14%, CAT, 51% and SOD, 150%. Ranitidine afforded 56% prevention in ulcer formation with 67%, 55% and 78% attenuation of the inhibition of mucus, CAT and SOD, respectively, by indomethacin. While indomethacin-induced lipid peroxidation was attenuated by 58% reduction in MDA concentration on pretreatment with folic acid, Ranitidine offered 65% reduction. Basal and stimulated acid secretions were significantly reduced in the treated when compared with control animals. Folic acid produced a 21% reduction in the basal acid output when compared with the control animals (P < 0.05), and 140% reduction in histamine-induced acid response.

Conclusion:

The results indicate the gastroprotective activity of folic acid due its antioxidative and anti-secretory properties.

Ameliorative effect of curcumin on hepatotoxicity induced by chloroquine phosphate

India is one of the most endemic areas, where malaria predominates and its control has become a formidable task. Chloroquine phosphate (CQ) on account of its rapid action on blood schizontocide of all the malarial parasite strains has become the most widely prescribed drug for prophylaxis and treatment of malaria. Toxicity of CQ is most commonly encountered at therapeutic and higher doses of treatment. Thus, the present study was undertaken to evaluate the protective effect of Curcumin, a herbal antioxidant obtained from Curcuma longa, on hepatic biochemical and histopathological status of CQ induced male mice. Swiss albino male mice were administered oral doses of CQ (100mg/kg body wt., 200mg/kg body wt. and 300mg/kg body wt.) and CQ+curcumin (300mg/kg body wt.+80mg/kg body wt.) for 45 days. A withdrawal of high dose treatment for 45 days was also studied. Administration of CQ brought about a significant decrease in Protein content with a decline in SDH, ATPase and ALKase activities, whereas ACPase activity was found to be significantly increased following CQ treatment. Antioxidant enzyme SOD registered a significant reduction as opposed to TBARS which was found to be elevated in a significant manner in the CQ treated groups as compared to control. Gravimetric indices (body weight and organ weight) declined significantly following CQ treatment. Administration of curcumin exhibited significant reversal of CQ induced toxicity in hepatic tissue. Protein content, SDH, ATPase, ALKase, ACPase, SOD, TBARS, body weight and organ weight were found to be comparable to that of control group after curcumin administration. Thus, obtained results led us to conclude the curative potential of curcumin against CQ induced hepatotoxicity.

Attenuation of Chloroquine‐Induced Renal Damage by α‐Lipoic Acid: Possible Antioxidant Mechanism

The toxic effect of chloroquine (CQ) has been attributed to oxidative stress with the consequences of lipid peroxidation. This study investigates the effects of alpha-lipoic acid (LA) on CQ-induced nephrotoxicity in rats. A single oral administration of CQ (970 mg/kg)-induced nephrotoxicity, manifested biochemically by a significant increase in serum creatinine and blood urea nitrogen concentrations. In addition, renal tissue from CQ-treated rats showed a significant increase in lipid peroxides measured as thiobarbituric acid reactive substances and hydroperoxides, along with significant decrease in nonenzymic antioxidants (vitamin C, vitamin E, and reduced glutathione) and enzymic antioxidants (superoxide dismutase, catalase, glutathione peroxidase, and glutathione-S-transferase) levels. Oral administration of LA (10, 30, or 100 mg/kg) in different doses for 10 days produced a significant protection against nephrotoxicity induced by CQ. Treatment with LA markedly reduced the elevated lipid peroxidation, restored the depleted renal antioxidant defense system. LA at 100 mg/kg was effective when compared with other doses (10 and 30 mg/kg). This was accompanied by the histopathological observations in kidney tissue. The results suggest that LA ameliorate the lipid peroxidation and the loss of cellular antioxidants, thereby protecting the CQ-induced oxidative damage in kidney.

Identification of superoxide dismutase as a potential urinary marker of carbon tetrachloride-induced hepatic toxicity

The aim of this study was the identification of a novel protein marker of hepatotoxicity in rat urine. Rats were dosed by gavage with carbon tetrachloride (CCl(4)) to induce acute liver injury. Surface enhanced laser desorption/ionisation (SELDI) ProteinChip technology revealed the appearance of a 15.7 kDa protein in the CCl(4)-treated rat urine. One-dimensional sodium dodecyl sulphate polyacrylamide electrophoresis (SDS-PAGE) identified an 18.4 kDa protein in the CCl(4)-treated rat urine. The appearance of either protein was coincident over a time course during which they first appeared at 12h post-dosing, peaked at 36h and had disappeared again within 3 days post-dosing. The protein was identified by in-gel digestion and nano-electrospray (nano-ES)-tandem mass spectrometry as Cu/Zn superoxide dismutase (SOD-1). SOD activity was found to be increased by 61.4-fold in CCl(4)-treated rat urine. Western blots of tissue homogenates from the rats revealed a time-dependent loss of SOD-1 from the livers of CCl(4)-treated rats matching the time course of SOD-1 appearance in urine. SOD-1 is not specifically located in liver; however, its appearance in urine in response to acute CCl(4)-induced hepatotoxicity is a novel finding; this coupled with loss from the liver following injury suggests urinary SOD-1 may be a potential marker of hepatotoxicity.

Changes in antioxidant status and biochemical indices after acute administration of artemether, artemether-lumefantrine and halofantrine in rats

Artemether, artemether-lumefantrine, or coartem and halofantrine are alternative antimalarial drugs to chloroquine. Their efficacy and potential to delay drug resistance in falciparum malaria had led to their increased use. Although these drugs have proven to be well tolerated, there are adverse effects associated with them. This study was designed to examine the toxic potential of acute administration of these drugs in rats. Twenty-four rats were divided into four groups: group I (control) received distilled water; group II received artemether for 5 days with an initial dose of 3.2 g/kg body weight on day 1 and 1.6 mg/kg body weight on days 2-5; group III received coartem (27 mg/kg body weight/day) for 3 days, which was divided into two equal portions per day; and group IV received halofantrine (24 mg/kg body weight/day) in three equal portions. Administration of artemether, coartem and halofantrine caused significant decrease (P < 0.05) in reduced glutathione levels in the liver by 29%, 21% and 26%, respectively. In contrast, there were no significant differences (P > 0.05) in the kidney glutathione levels. Furthermore, artemether, coartem and halofantrine decreased the liver- and kidney-enzymatic antioxidant status of the animals. Precisely, artemether, coartem and halofantrine decreased liver superoxide dismutase and catalase activities by 45%, 50% and 57%; and 20%, 29% and 23%, respectively. While the kidney catalase activities were decreased by 41%, 28% and 30%, respectively, the drugs however did not produce significant effect (P > 0.05) on the kidney superoxide dismutase activities. In addition, artemether, coartem and halofantrine decreased the hepatic levels of glutathione S-transferase by 64%, 51% and 53%, respectively. Administration of artemether, coartem and halofantrine significantly increased (P < 0.05) liver and kidney lipid peroxidation levels by 67%, 50% and 81%; and 58%, 43% and 31%, respectively. This indicates that the liver is considerably more affected than the kidneys. Similarly, halofantrine treatment caused significant elevation (P < 0.05) in the levels of serum creatinine, aspartate and alanine aminotransferases and blood urea nitrogen by 73%, 66%, 61% and 63%, respectively. These data indicate that oral administration of artemether, coartem and halofantrine has adverse effects on both enzymic and non-enzymatic antioxidant status of the animals.